Beauty Pageant Contestant Goes Viral for Her Answer During Q&A
QUESTION & ANSWER PORTION – A participant in the 2024 Rodeo King & Queen pageant held in San Pablo, Isabela, remained unaffected by the criticism she faced on social media following her response during the Q&A segment of the event.
On January 27, 2024, Lala Cheena Mae Bautista, representing Barangay Poblacion, gained viral attention on social media due to her answer to a question posed by the host. When asked, “If you were a genie in a bottle, who would you like to serve as your master?” Bautista responded, “Good evening everyone… If I was a genie in a bottle, I would like to serve my mother as my master… Because all I can say about our situation is whatever who you are where you from, your skin color, your gender identity just speak yourself, find your voice, find your name by speaking yourself, thank you.”
The video garnered millions of views on social media and elicited numerous humorous comments from netizens. Despite facing criticism and doubts about her victory in the contest, Bautista, who ultimately won the pageant, demonstrated that she was unfazed by the negative comments. Bautista received several awards, including Best in Swimsuit, Creative Rodeo Attire, and Best in the evening gown category.
Meanwhile, some netizens relate the performance of the beauty pageant contestant to Janina San Miguel, a former beauty queen who won the Binibining Pilipinas-World title in 2008. Her victory stirred controversy as, during the Question and Answer (Q&A) portion of the pageant, Janina faced criticism for losing her composure and delivering an unfocused and rambling response. Despite winning major awards for Best in Long Gown and Best in Swimsuit, Janina’s Q&A performance attracted negative attention.
Janina appeared confident initially but struggled to articulate her thoughts when asked about the role her family played in her candidacy. Apologizing and expressing surprise at her top 10 placement, Janina eventually mentioned the importance of her family in her life.